Is Registering a US Company in Shenzhen a Breeze? Budget Checklist Included!

How to Easily Register a U.S. Company from Shenzhen? Your Budget Checklist Is Here!

In today’s increasingly globalized world, more and more Chinese entrepreneurs and startups are looking to expand their businesses into international markets. Among all the options, the United States stands out as one of the top choices due to its mature business environment, open market system, and vast consumer base. For a foreign trade-driven city like Shenzhen, registering a U.S. company not only enhances corporate image but also brings numerous advantages in cross-border trade, fundraising, brand protection, and more.

In recent years, with growing economic and trade exchanges between China and the U.S., the trend of Shenzhen-based companies going global has become increasingly evident. According to data released by the Shenzhen Municipal Commerce Bureau, Shenzhen’s outward foreign direct investment grew by over 15% year-on-year in 2025, with a significant portion flowing into the North American market. At the same time, several U.S. states have actively introduced preferential policies to attract overseas investors, creating a favorable window for Shenzhen-based businesses and individuals.

So, how can you easily register a U.S. company from Shenzhen? And what is the budget required? This article will walk you through everything step by step.

1. Why Register a Company in the U.S.?

Many Shenzhen entrepreneurs ask why go all the way to the U.S. to register a company? There are actually several practical reasons

Tax Benefits Several U.S. states, such as Delaware and Wyoming, offer low or even zero corporate income tax, making them highly attractive for startups.

Easier Access to Funding Having a U.S. company structure makes it easier to attract international capital, especially when seeking venture funding or preparing for a U.S. IPO.

Brand Credibility U.S. companies are widely recognized globally, which helps build customer trust-particularly in areas like cross-border e-commerce and tech products.

Strong Legal Protection The U.S. legal system is mature and offers robust protections for shareholders, supporting long-term business stability.

2. Basic Steps to Register a U.S. Company

Despite the distance between the U.S. and China, the registration process can be efficient and straightforward with the help of professional agencies. Here are the typical steps

Step 1 Choose a Business Structure

Common types include

LLC Limited Liability Company Most popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses, offering flexible taxation and limited liability.

C-Corporation Suitable for companies planning to raise funds or go public.

S-Corporation Ideal for small businesses that want certain tax benefits.

Most Shenzhen entrepreneurs choose LLC due to its simplicity, flexibility, and liability protection.

Step 2 Select a State for Registration

Different states have varying fees and tax policies. Popular options include

Delaware Most popular for incorporation, with strong legal infrastructure and privacy protection, though it requires an annual franchise tax.

Wyoming No corporate or personal income tax; ideal for cost-conscious businesses.

California Recommended if your operations will be based on the U.S. West Coast.

Step 3 Prepare Required Documents

Typically includes

Unique company name

Registered address can be provided by a local agent

Director/shareholder information may remain anonymous

Brief description of business scope

Step 4 Submit Application and Wait for Approval

Usually handled by a registration agency, taking about 7-15 business days.

Step 5 Open a U.S. Bank Account

It’s recommended to set up a U.S. bank account promptly after registration for smooth operations and settlements. Some banks now support remote account opening without needing to visit the U.S.

3. Budget Checklist for Registering a U.S. Company from Shenzhen

The total cost of setting up a U.S. company from Shenzhen typically includes the following items

Item Estimated Cost RMB Notes

-

Company Registration Fee 1,500 - 4,000 RMB Includes state filing fee and agency service

Registered Address Service 800 - 2,000 RMB/year Required by most states

Registered Agent Service 1,000 - 2,500 RMB/year Mandatory by law

EIN Tax ID Application Free Can be done online or via agent

U.S. Bank Account Setup 2,000 - 6,000 RMB Includes remote opening fees

Annual Compliance Maintenance 2,000 - 5,000 RMB/year Includes annual report, address updates, etc.

In total, initial setup plus one year of maintenance costs generally range from 10,000 to 20,000 RMB, depending on the chosen state and service provider.

4. Key Considerations for Shenzhen Businesses

Although the registration process is relatively simple, there are some important details to keep in mind

Plan Your Tax Structure Wisely There is a tax treaty between China and the U.S.-consult a professional accountant to avoid double taxation.

Maintain Accurate Records Even though the company is registered in the U.S., you must still comply with China’s foreign exchange and tax reporting requirements.

Choose a Reputable Agency With many service providers in the market, ensure you select a licensed and trustworthy one.

Understand Industry Requirements If entering regulated industries like medical devices or food exports, compliance with U.S. FDA regulations is mandatory.

5. Conclusion

As Sino-U.S. economic ties continue to deepen, more Shenzhen enterprises are exploring new paths for overseas expansion. Registering a U.S. company not only opens up broader market opportunities but also lays a solid foundation for future global growth.

By understanding the correct procedures, planning your budget carefully, and working with reliable professionals, the entire process can be both efficient and stress-free. If you're considering stepping onto the international stage, the time to act is now.